How Is Your Withness

In his sermon, Rich Hart reflects on Acts 4:13, where Peter and John's boldness astonished onlookers, who recognized they had been with Jesus. Hart emphasizes the concept of "withness," the idea that our closeness and time spent with Jesus powerfully impact our witness to others. He explains the importance of being with Jesus, drawing from examples in Scripture where Jesus spent time with His disciples to teach, serve, and prepare them for their mission. Hart highlights the story of Peter and John healing a lame beggar in Acts 3-4, demonstrating how their relationship with Jesus empowered them to boldly proclaim His name, even in the face of opposition. Hart challenges the congregation to reflect on their own witness. He encourages them to prioritize spending intentional time with Jesus, despite life's distractions. He provides practical advice: setting a specific time and place for devotion, having a plan for reading Scripture, praying, worshiping, and embracing silence. Ultimately, Hart urges believers to maintain a strong, ongoing relationship with Jesus, allowing it to influence their lives and their witness to others.